Live music speaks to our soul — and we know it does for many of you, too. That’s why we’ve rounded up 10 free concert series happening all summer long across NOVA and DC. Plus, we’ve put together a handy packing list so you’ll be fully prepared to soak up the sounds of summer.

Arlington

Lubber Run Amphitheater: Free Concert Series | 200 N. Columbus St.
This weekend concert series kicks off Friday, June 6, and goes until August 1. The former orchestra player in me is eyeing the Arlington Philharmonic performance on June 29.

Food: Pack a picnic
Drink: Alcohol is prohibited
Seating: Bring blankets + chairs

Netherland Carillon Concerts | 1400 N. Meade St.
On select Sunday afternoons, catch live music from jazz to pop. These concerts are 3-4:30 p.m., and park rangers lead activities for kids from 2:30-4:30 p.m.

Food: Pack a picnic
Drink: Alcohol is prohibited
Seating: Bring blankets + chairs

Alexandria

Alexandria Concerts | Various locations
Starting June 5, Alexandria will host various performances on Thursdays + Saturdays through the beginning of August. Note that the Music of the Regiment Concert does cost $20 to attend.

Food: Concert dependent
Drink: Concert dependent
Seating: Bring blankets + chairs (location dependent)

Loading Dock Rock Summer Concert Series | 3950 Wheeler Ave.
New this year, Port City Brewing Company is hosting a concert series on the third Friday of every month through September. If there is inclement weather, the concert will be moved into their indoor beer garden.

Food: Food available from La Tingeria
Drink: Available for purchase from Port City Brewing Company
Seating: Bring chairs, limited high-top seating available

Fairfax

City of Fairfax Rock the Block | 10415 North St.
On the fourth Friday of the month, Old Town Square transforms into a hub of activity with live music, food vendors, a beer garden, and more.

Food: Food vendors are available
Drink: Beer garden available
Seating: Bring chairs + blankets
Pets: Only service animals

Fort Hunt Concerts | 8999 Fort Hunt Rd.
These concerts take place every Sunday in June, July, and August at Pavilion A. All of the concerts start at 7 p.m., unless noted otherwise. Music performances span a wide range of genres, including jazz and rock 'n' roll.

Food: Pack a picnic
Drink: Alcohol is prohibited
Seating: Bring chairs + blankets — limited picnic tables available

Surrounding NOVA Area

Fright Night Live! | 777 Lynn St., Historic Downtown Herndon
This concert series is every Friday at 6 p.m. in the Herndon Town Green from May to August. Check out the schedule that is posted online.

Food: Available for purchase
Drink: Available for purchase, no carry-ins allowed
Seating: Bring chairs + blankets

Reston Concerts on the Town | 1818 Discovery St., Reston Town Center
These concerts take place every Saturday until Aug. 23 at 7:30 p.m. Taking inspiration from the Grateful Dead, we’re most looking forward to the Pat McGee Band on July 26.

Food: Pack a picnic
Drink: Grab a drink from a participating restaurant as part of their Sip + Stroll
Seating: Bring chairs + blankets

DC

Jazz in the Garden | National Gallery of Art — Sculpture Garden
This is one of the more popular concert series in DC, with performances of jazz, Latin fusion, R&B, and more. Registration is handled through a lottery, giving everyone an equal chance to experience these performances. If you’re selected in the lottery, you’ll be notified on the Monday prior to the program.

Food: Available for purchase in the cafe, or pack a picnic. There will also be a gelato stand.
Drink: Available for purchase
Seating: Bring chairs + blankets

Rock the Dock | 970 Wharf St. SW
The perfect concerts with the perfect backdrop. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the Transit Pier will have concerts every Wednesday at 7 p.m. Note that if you bring a dog, it must be leashed.

Food: Food from Wharf restaurants
Drink: Drinks for purchase, no carry-ins allowed
Seating: Limited bench + table seating, which is on a first-come, first-served basis